174. STOP Treating Autism like OCD: The "Golden Rule" of Differential Diagnosis with Dr. Jeremy Shuman

About this episode

Kristina Orlova interviews Dr. Jeremy Shuman about the distinctions between Autism and OCD, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis.

Is it OCD, or is your brain just wired differently?🧠 In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Dr. Jeremy Shuman, a psychologist and specialist in the intersection of Autism and OCD. Together, they explore the complex overlap between neurodevelopmental traits and obsessive-compulsive patterns. Dr. Shuman opens up about: • The definition of Autism and the shift toward the Neurodiversity Movement. • Why observable behaviors like "stimming" are often mistaken for OCD compulsions. • The internal experience of sensory seeking versus sensory rejecting. • The trait of Monotropism and how deep focus differs from clinical obsessions. Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone who is neurodivergent, this episode offers essential tools and insights to help you understand the "why" behind the rituals. 📲 About Dr. Jeremy Shuman (guest): • licensed psychologist, expert in OCD and anxiety disorders, autism and OCD • Web Page: https://mindfulstl.com/providers/jeremy-shuman-psy-d/ • OCD/Autism SIG Interest Form: https://www.tfaforms.com/5069768 ✂️ TIMESTAMPS: [00:00] – Why what you know about Autism is wrong [03:05] – The DSM Trap: Why Autism…

People in this episode

Host: Kristina Orlova

Guest: Dr. Jeremy Shuman

Topics covered

• Autism
• OCD
• Neurodiversity
• Differential Diagnosis
• Mental Health

Keywords

• OCD
• Autism
• Neurodiversity
• Differential Diagnosis
• Mental Health
• Stimming
• Monotropism

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Neurodiversity Movement, DSM, Mindful STL

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• 185. You’re stuck because you’re doing ERP halfway · May 22, 2026 · 33 min
• 184. A 50-Year OCD Expert Explains Why Recovery Feels So Hard · May 15, 2026 · 20 min
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